Cardioversion

Quick facts about cardioversion

  • Cardioversion is a procedure to treat an abnormal heart rhythm (arrythmia).

  • It’s usually recommended as an effective and safe treatment for atrial fibrillation.

  • Cardioversion is performed in hospital under general anaesthetic.

  • It involves connecting you to a defibrillator machine to give your heart a controlled electric shock to make it beat normally again.

  • The procedure itself is short (approx. 10 minutes) but you will be monitored for several hours afterwards.

What is a cardioversion?

  • Cardioversion is a procedure to treat an abnormal heart rhythm (arrythmia).

  • A controlled electric shock from a defibrillator machine is used to correct the arrythmia and help your heart beat normally again.

Why do I need cardioversion?

  • Arrhythmias are caused by problems in your heart’s electrical system, causing the heart to beat too fast or ‘quiver’, making you feel unwell.

  • Arrhythmias can also lead to serious health risks (eg stroke) so it’s important to get treatment.

  • A cardioversion is often recommended if you have atrial fibrillation, an abnormal rhythm in the upper chambers of your heart (the atria).

How do I prepare for a cardioversion procedure?

  • Cardioversion is usually done in hospital under general anaesthetic.

  • You’ll receive information about fasting and any medications when you book your procedure. 

What can I expect?

  • Before the procedure, you’ll have sticky pads placed on your chest, arms and back (men may need to be shaved) and be connected to a machine to monitor your heart rhythm.

  • You’ll be given a general anaesthetic and you’ll stay asleep the whole time.

  • While you sleep, a defibrillator machine will send low-energy electric currents to your heart to make it beat normally again.

 What will my recovery be like after cardioversion?

  • The cardioversion procedure itself only takes about ten minutes.

  • You’ll stay with us for several hours afterwards so we can monitor your heart closely.

  • You should be able to go home the same day and return to normal activities within a few days.

What are the risks of cardioversion?

  • There are risks with any surgical procedure but cardioversion is generally regarded as safe.

  • You may need to take medication beforehand to help prevent blood clotting.

  • Some people have allergic reactions to the sticky pads placed on the chest.

  • We’ll discuss all the risks beforehand to ensure you’re comfortable with the procedure.